The launch of the unofficial Sinhala and Tamil translations of the United Nations Security Council resolutions on “Women, Peace and Security” took place today (02) in Battaramulla, under the patronage of Minister of Women and Child Affairs Saroja Savithri Paulraj.
The event coincided with the 26th anniversary of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, which fell on October 31. The translations were produced by the “Pathways to Peace” organization with the sponsorship of the Canadian Government, led by the High Commission of Canada in Sri Lanka, and their printed copies were presented during the ceremony.
The Women, Peace and Security agenda is an international policy framework aimed at recognizing the specific challenges faced by women and girls in armed conflicts and war situations, while ensuring their equal and active participation in peacebuilding, conflict prevention, and security enhancement processes.
Adopted on October 31, 2000, UN Security Council Resolution 1325 emphasizes the role and participation of women in conflict prevention, conflict resolution, peace negotiations, and peacebuilding processes. The main objectives of this agenda also include protecting women and girls in armed conflicts, preventing sexual and gender-based violence, and taking women’s needs into account during relief and reconstruction efforts.
Addressing the occasion, Minister Saroja Savithri Paulraj stated that enabling access to knowledge on international policies, resolutions, and decisions without language barriers is a vital step toward broadening awareness of women’s rights and enhancing women’s active contribution to decision-making processes regarding peace and security. The Minister further emphasized that language should not be a barrier to knowledge, and building a peaceful society through awareness, equality, and participation is everyone’s responsibility. (Newswire)
